What Are Single Acting Cylinders?

A single acting hydraulic cylinder is a type of actuator that uses hydraulic pressure to extend the piston and either a spring or the weight of the load to return it to its original position. Unlike double acting cylinders, which require hydraulic force for both extension and retraction, single acting models only need a single hydraulic connection, reducing complexity.

Enerpac’s single acting cylinders are built with:

• Spring-return or load-return mechanisms

• High-pressure (10,000 psi / 700 bar) operation

• Precision-machined components for long service life

• Corrosion-resistant finishes for demanding conditions

Available in a wide range of capacities, stroke lengths, and mounting options, they’re ideal for tasks that require reliable pushing force without the need for powered retraction.

Where and How Are They Used?

Enerpac Single Acting Cylinders are extremely versatile and commonly found in applications like:

• Bridge and infrastructure lifting

• Steelwork and fabrication

• Equipment maintenance and machine alignment

• Construction lifting and positioning

• Testing and load verification setups

• Factory presses and jigs

Because of their compact design and ease of use, these cylinders are popular in both field and shop environments. They’re typically connected to manual pumps for portable jobs, or powered pumps for more intensive tasks.

Accessories and System Components

Enerpac’s single acting cylinders are designed to integrate seamlessly with a wide variety of accessories:

• Hydraulic hand, electric, or air pumps

• High-pressure hoses with quick-connect couplers

• Load saddles and tilt saddles for force alignment

• Mounting bases and brackets for secure installation

• Pressure gauges and valves for precise control

• Carrying handles and storage cases for mobile use

This modularity allows teams to build flexible hydraulic systems suited to any lifting or pushing task.

Industries in the USA That Use Single Acting Cylinders

Enerpac Single Acting Cylinders are used throughout the United States across a variety of industrial sectors:

• Construction & Civil Engineering – For bridge jacking, foundation lifting, and structural adjustments

• Rail & Transportation – Lifting locomotives, cars, and components for repair and inspection

• Manufacturing & Assembly – For press operations, component alignment, and clamping

• Mining & Energy – Equipment maintenance and field-based mechanical tasks

• Utilities & Power Generation – Lifting transformers, valves, and heavy electrical components

• Marine & Offshore – Positioning bulkheads, winches, and deck gear

The ability to deliver precise, repeatable force makes single acting cylinders a go-to solution on everything from skyscraper sites to shipyards.

Why Choose Enerpac Single Acting Cylinders?

Enerpac’s single acting hydraulic cylinders are built to exacting standards and engineered for daily use in high-demand environments:

• Simplified setup with only one hose required

• Spring-return or load-return mechanisms reduce operator steps

• Compact design with rugged strength

• Low-maintenance sealing systems for long operational life

• Proven safety features including over-travel protection and stop rings

These cylinders are ideal for professionals who need performance without complication—all while maintaining Enerpac’s industry-leading durability.

Interesting Facts

• Enerpac’s RC-Series Single Acting Cylinders are considered the global standard for general-purpose lifting.

• Many models feature removable saddles and carry handles, perfect for mobile work crews.

• In emergency lifting scenarios, single acting cylinders are often used with hand pumps for fast deployment.

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